Today we’d like to introduce you to Demetrius Washington.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For my entire childhood, my father served the community both professionally and as a volunteer. Through his work at Northcott Neighborhood House in Milwaukee, WI, I not only participated in youth programs, but I found my own passion for giving back. I volunteered in the office, for various events, and helping younger kids during such programs as summer camp.
When I went off to college, I really wasn’t sure what I wanted to do because I had so many interests. As an EOP student, I attended a summer program before freshman year and was assigned an adviser who had majored in sociology. After taking one of Mr. Peete’s classes and reflecting on my dad’s career, I declared myself a sociology major. At the time, I really thought I would follow in my father’s path because I enjoyed what he did so much.
As a broke college student, I attended a job fair and was offered a bank teller job on the spot. Working in a bank exposed me to a whole different career path I’d never considered. I did well in the branch and when my manager took a job in the corporate office, he took me along with him. After a couple of years, that same manager went to a competitor who had launched their own technology subsidiary and again, I followed him to the competitor but in a different role. Once again, I found myself on a totally different career path, but I loved it. Today, I’m fortunate to work for one of the top technology companies in the country.
Although I didn’t take the same career path as my father, I never lost my passion my community service. Through the years, I’ve continued to volunteer with various groups even after relocating to Dallas in 2010. I’ve done neighborhood cleanups and organized warehouses along with MegaCare. I’ve volunteered in Homeless Shelters with CAAPCO YPD, I’ve helped to make season’s bright for underprivileged children with Love For Kids. One of my favorite events every year is the African American Male Academic Bowl where middle school boys compete in a Jeopardy-like tournament. Currently, I am the Community Relations Chair for the National Black MBA Association DFW Chapter and I’m extremely proud of the impact we’re having on the community.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My parents were high-school sweethearts that married young and unfortunately split up young. Neither of my parents was wealthy. Growing up, my family often needed assistance but like my dad, I always found myself still finding a way to give back.
After I moved to Dallas, my career didn’t go quite the way I wanted at first and for a time I was unemployed. Almost no one knew because God sustained me. I was still able to pay my bills, live my life, and give back. I wholeheartedly believe that we all go through different things in life but our own attitude determines much of the outcome. I maintain a positive outlook and know that whatever comes my way, I can handle. As a lifelong learner, I’m always asking myself what is this situation teaching me?
National Black MBA Association DFW Chapter – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The National Black MBA® Association was conceived in 1970 to help Blacks coming into the corporate sector, largely for the first time, share experiences and insights to help make the journey easier. The Dallas chapter was founded in 1989.
The National Black MBA® Association is the premier business organization serving Black professionals. Our vision in the Metroplex is to facilitate connections and growth opportunities between DFW African-American professionals, corporations and the community through an integrated 360º approach.
Our organization focuses on three main pillars:
Career Exploration: Programs that increase the acceptance rates of our members in undergraduate and graduate programs; and provide career opportunities/placements.
Leadership and Professional Development: Programs that help members acquire the necessary skills and opportunities for career advancement.
Economic Prosperity: Programs that help our members gain financial knowledge, independence, improve credit and access capital opportunities.
I’m most proud of our ability to consistently fulfill our mission which has led to numerous awards over the years. In 2018 alone, our Leaders of Tomorrow students won 1st place in the National Case Competition. Our Chapter was also awarded the Pillar Chapter of the Year award at the National Conference and Expo.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
For me, it begins with having a clear definition of who I am and what I value. Then I define success as my ability to remain true to my values in all aspects of my life.
I don’t compare myself to other people but I obviously admire aspects of other people’s lives. I pay attention to whatever they’re doing that I like and I figure out if it will work for me. I’m always looking for opportunities to learn and grow. When I can apply a new skill so I’m better at doing the things I love, that is a success.
Contact Info:
- Website: National Black MBA Association DFW Chapter
- Phone: 2148534497
- Email: communityrelations@dfwmbas.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/washdt/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/washdt
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/hidemetrius
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dtwashington/
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